Chip and Joanna Shut Down Writer Who Criticized Their Parenting

The Gaines mean what they say.

Chip and Joanna Gaines have built a multi-million dollar brand thanks to their HGTV home-remodeling showFixer Uppers. While the show has garnered a loyal fan base, it’s been a long grind to mainstream popularity. Despite their success, the Texas couple has a popular motto that they claim to live by, family first. So, when writer Daryl Austin wrote a piece for USA Today about how their success is admirable, but impossible to achieve while actually putting their family first, well, Chip and Joanna had something to say about that.

“There is much to be admired about them, including their commitments to their faith, marriage, family, and community,” Austin wrote of the famous couple. “There’s an important distinction, however, that I think their millions of fans and would-be imitators need to remember: Chip and Joanna Gaines did not get where they are now by putting their family first.”

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Chip Gaines responded to the article by first saying that Austin “clearly doesn’t know me,” before breaking down that he would close up the whole operation before letting it come between him and his family.

I dont know daryl, & he clearly doesnt know me. But for the record: If there is ever a need w/ my family (1st), I'll shut this circus down so fast it will make your head spin. BUT jo & I believe, w/ God anything is possible. Including having an amazing family AND career you love. https://t.co/3DbWIIKMnh

Between the fan backlash and Chip’s response, Austin ended up apologizing and saying that he regrets writing the piece and bringing their authenticity into question.

“I didn’t write it to be hurtful, out of jealousy, or to cause controversy,” Austin wrote. “I wrote it for one simple reason: because I believed every word I wrote to be true.”

Chip and Joanna took it in stride, though, and even invited Austin and his family to stay at one of their two Texas rental properties. While Austin declined the offer, he did admit that he’d be open to visiting the family there at some point.